System for marking components and for verifying the applied marking

Abstract

A system for applying a set of marks; and automatically verifying marks is disclosed, having user interface comprising a bar code scanner and a visual display. The system applies a mark to a component, and verifies the machine readability of the mark, without readjustment of marked component An operator is given a simplistic pass/fail indicator for verification. The system features a status monitoring facility whereby a maintenance status of the system is monitored by analysing an image of an applied mark. Automatic alert signals are generated and displayed on the user interface, when the system detects, from an analysis of an image of an applied mark, that machine maintenance is required. The system further features security systems which restrict access for configuration and set up of the system.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to the field of marking, and particularly although not exclusively, to machine readable codes, including but not limited to Data Matrix marks. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION [0002] Within industry in general, there is a requirement for marking of components, to ensure that parts can be traced to their original manufacturer, to guard against counterfeit parts and to make sure that parts are coded correctly, to make sure that the correct components are fitted, and to guard against fitment of similar or near identical, but incorrect parts during assembly of products. [0003] Different industry sectors, for example automotive, aerospace, computing sectors each have standards for component marking. In the aerospace industry for example, requirements for marking of components are set out in the prior art document Spec 2000 available from the Air Transport Association of America Inc, 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington D.C 20004-1707...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0021] The marking and verification are carried out under control of a common control system. A user interface display may be provided, enabling an operator to monitor stages of marking, verification, and machine status monitoring, and to easily determine a result of verification of a mark, and to determine whether machine maintenance is required.

Problems solved by technology

There is a requirement that for some components, where a label is unsuitable because it is not durable or may become detached from the component, that the component itself must be directly marked.

Engine aircraft components in particular undergo severe operating conditions.

For aerospace components, compliance with Data Matrix marking specifications is a critical issue.

In some cases, applying a mark incorrectly to a component requires that the whole component is scrapped.

However, there are limitations to how many times an incorrect mark can be obliterated and re-marked for single component, depending upon the component type.

Application of out of tolerance Data Matrix marks or human readable marks can still lead to scrapping of manufactured components before they are used.

Firstly, the mark must be applied within tight tolerance specifications.

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